By Adam Pettyjohn, CRG Former Camper and Volunteer —

I went to Camp Rainbow Gold for the first time in 2011, one year into treatment for leukemia. At first I was nervous about fitting in with the other campers, but that week I had some great experiences and felt totally normal and accepted, even though I have had cancer. The volunteers were extremely kind and seemed to be having a great time themselves. By the end of Camp I felt connected with all the other campers and volunteers and I couldn’t wait to be back.

I attended Youth Camp and then Teen Camp for the next eight years. Last year I had the opportunity to volunteer as a Junior Counselor for the first time. It was so rewarding to help the younger kids to have a great week. It’s also really inspiring to see how generous the volunteers are with their time and how kind they are to the kids at Camp. One of my favorite parts of Camp every year is hearing the shines people make. I also love seeing the campers bond with each other and support one another. I can’t wait to be back at Camp this summer!